Reading FC have announced the departure of manager Veljko Paunovic.

The Serbian has been under increasing pressure in recent weeks after a run of terrible form but it was still rather unexpected when the news was delivered just minutes after the full-time whistle of Reading’s 3-2 victory at Preston North End.

The decision for Paunovic to depart was made prior to the match with the players left unaware until they went back into the dressing room after celebrating the win.

Saturday’s victory snapped a winless run of 84 days stretching back to November 27th when they beat Swansea City 3-2 in Wales.

Paul Ince will now take charge on an interim basis alongside Michael Gilkes.

The full statement from the club can be read below: Reading Football Club can confirm that the contract of first team manager Veljko Paunović has been terminated by mutual consent.

The Serbian was appointed as manager of the Royals in late August 2020 and without fans in the stands to support him or his side, we sustained a push for promotion for much of his maiden campaign in the Championship - only for our play-off hopes to fade in the final few weeks of 2020-21.

This season, somewhat understandably, has proven more difficult - having to help lead the club through strict transfer embargo restrictions and contract limitations, an injury crisis like never before seen at our club, a global pandemic and the challenge of a six-point deduction imposed by the EFL.

For these reasons, owner Mr Dai Yongge wanted to afford Veljko time to turn around a poor recent run of results that now sees us in a battle for second tier survival. However, with nearly a third of the season still remaining and every point now vital in our bid to retain Championship status, the decision has been mutually agreed to make a change.

Chief Executive, Mr Dayong Pang, said “I met in person with Pauno yesterday morning and I would like to personally thank him for his commitment and dedication to our club during his time as first team manager - but also his professionalism throughout what have been undeniably challenging circumstances this season. Everyone at Reading Football Club would like to wish Veljko the very best of luck in his future career.

“The board and I will now work diligently to identify the right candidate to take this club forward. This work will be done quickly but without undue haste as we fully appreciate the importance of our decision to appoint a new manager at this crucial stage of the campaign.”

Former England captain Paul Ince, father to Royals loanee Tom Ince, has been appointed to take charge of first team affairs on an interim basis alongside Academy Manager Michael Gilkes, while we embark on the thorough search for a new permanent manager.

The club will make no additional comment at this time but will provide further updates as soon as possible.

Follow along on The Chronicle website for all the breaking news and analysis as this story develops.